Snake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Snake is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Fort Belknap, Montana, along the TR-Snake Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1930, this Earth-type dam stands at 17.6 feet tall and stretches 150 feet in length, providing essential water storage for agricultural purposes. With a maximum storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, Snake plays a crucial role in supporting the local farming community by ensuring a reliable water supply for irrigation.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Snake is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," it continues to serve its primary purpose of irrigation effectively. With the potential for future modifications or improvements, Snake remains a vital water resource infrastructure for the region, contributing to the sustainable management of water resources in the area.

As a part of the Omaha District in Montana, Snake Creek Dam is a significant asset in the region's water management system. Owned by a private entity, the dam's operation, maintenance, and regulatory oversight fall under state jurisdiction, highlighting the collaboration between the private sector and government agencies in safeguarding water resources. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, Snake stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water use for agricultural needs while ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

17.6

River Or Stream

TR-SNAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17.6

Nid Storage

140

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.